Protracted Low-Dose Ionizing Radiation Effects upon Primate Performance

Abstract

The effect of a 300-rad radiation exposure protracted over a 72-hour period upon highly trained, performing primates was investigated. This experiment was designed to provide data to support nuclear survivability/ vulnerability assessments of aircraft engaged in lengthy missions during possible nuclear encounters, e.g., advanced tankers, cargo aircraft, and/or airborne command posts. Rhesus monkeys were trained in the operation of the Primate Equilibrium Platform (a ground-based aircraft control simulator). After extensive training, the monkeys' behavior was monitored during the 72-hour radiation exposure period. Ability to control the PEP was found to be relatively unimpaired, but all animals displayed classic prodromal symptoms including productive emesis.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1977
Accession Number
ADA054958

Entities

People

  • Donald J. Barnes
  • Michael G. Yochmowitz
  • Neal E. Lof
  • Rayford P. Patrick
  • Robert J. Yaeger

Organizations

  • United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • Human Systems
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accuracy
  • Air Force
  • Animals
  • Control Simulators
  • Dose Rate
  • Dosimeters
  • Dosimetry
  • Gamma Rays
  • Ionizing Radiation
  • Measurement
  • Medical Personnel
  • Nuclear Radiation
  • Radiation Effects
  • Rhesus Monkeys
  • Simulators
  • Training
  • Weapons

Readers

  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Nuclear and Radiation Engineering.
  • Toxicology/Environmental Toxicology